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2009 | 2010 2009 | 2010 Margarita Stoichkova and Vasil Cover photo: Stefanov Enrolling in a Master’s programme is a big decision that can have a profound impact on your future. Since the quality of Master’s programmes available in the international market varies widely, it is important you make the right choice. University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Citation preview
2009 | 2010
Economics and BusinessMaster’s programmes
2009 | 2010
Word of welcome
Cover photo:
Economics and Business students
Margarita Stoichkova and Vasil
Stefanov
Word of welcome
Enrolling in a Master’s programme is a big decision that can have a profound impact on your future. Since the quality of Master’s programmes available in the international market varies widely, it is important you make the right choice. It will probably come as no surprise that as Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Amsterdam (UvA), I have no hesitation in recommending our programmes. We have an interesting portfolio of programmes backed by a prestigious University and taught by a faculty that is internationally renowned. The high quality of our programmes reflects the reputation of our University. Moreover, our courses are truly international in respect of staff, students and content. We also realise that the quality of our programmes is determined to a large extent by the quality of our student body. We therefore take great care in assessing all applications for admission. Quality is further monitored by means of internal and external assessments and accreditation procedures, ensuring a top-quality and demanding curriculum as well as official recognition of your degree in both the Netherlands and abroad. Finally, we are located in the fascinating, cosmopolitan, cultural and business centre that is Amsterdam. Our location gives students excellent opportunities for developing contacts and finding internships, as well as for finding employment after graduation. Students also enjoy living in Amsterdam because of its tolerant and multicultural environment and vibrant cultural life.
This brochure provides information about the UvA, the Faculty of Economics and Business and the Faculty’s Master’s programmes. Additional information can be obtained from our website and our staff. The information presented here is intended to assist you in making your choice of a Master’s programme. If you find the programme that is right for you and we think you are right for us, we will be most pleased to welcome you to the UvA.
Professor Tom WansbeekDean, Faculty of Economics and Business
� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
University of Amsterdam
The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is a modern university with a rich history. Its predecessor, the Athenaeum Illustre, was established in 16�2 by the Amsterdam city council. Today, the Athenaeum Illustre has grown into a world-class research and teaching university.
The UvA offers a broad range of Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes. It now has more than 170 Master’s programmes covering almost every academic discipline, from Accountancy & Control to Philosophy, many of which are taught in English. The UvA is thus able to attract a large number of international students, and has countless nationalities represented in its student population. The wide selection of courses available allows students to design a programme to suit their personal ambitions and talents. Students are also given the best support possible both during and after their studies in the form of extensive academic and career coaching.
Many of the Master’s programmes reflect the top international research being conducted in a specific field, thus exposing students to groundbreaking research during their studies. Amsterdam is an inspiring city for students and
scientists alike. The close proximity of scientific institutes such as SEO Economic Research and the Tinbergen Institute facilitates and enriches research and independent study.
The UvA is a research university with a city as its campus. Many of the UvA’s facilities, such as the University Library and the student cultural organisation CREA, are located in the heart of Amsterdam. With the cultural and scientific institutes and UvA facilities spread across the city in this way, Amsterdam itself can be said to be the UvA’s true campus.
In the field of academic research, the UvA has a reputation to uphold. The UvA is ranked 5�rd in the World University Rankings (THES, 2008). Furthermore, the UvA is the highest ranked university in the Netherlands. Since the UvA is in contact with universities across the globe, virtually every student can do part of the curriculum abroad or meet students from all over the world in their Amsterdam classroom. The UvA is a member of LERU, a network of renowned European research universities, including the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Zurich, Leuven, Leiden and Edinburgh.
University of AmsterdamContents
Word of welcome 3
University of Amsterdam 5
One Faculty, two Schools 8
General information 9
Accountancy & Control 10
Actuarial Sciences 12
Business Economics 14
Economics 16
Econometrics 18
Business Studies 20
Master of Philosophy in Economics 21
International Finance 22
The Amsterdam MBA 24
Independent Executive MBA 26
international Executive Master of Finance and Control 28
Practical matters 30
� www.feb.uva.nl/education 5 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
University of Amsterdam
The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is a modern university with a rich history. Its predecessor, the Athenaeum Illustre, was established in 16�2 by the Amsterdam city council. Today, the Athenaeum Illustre has grown into a world-class research and teaching university.
The UvA offers a broad range of Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes. It now has more than 170 Master’s programmes covering almost every academic discipline, from Accountancy & Control to Philosophy, many of which are taught in English. The UvA is thus able to attract a large number of international students, and has countless nationalities represented in its student population. The wide selection of courses available allows students to design a programme to suit their personal ambitions and talents. Students are also given the best support possible both during and after their studies in the form of extensive academic and career coaching.
Many of the Master’s programmes refl ect the top international research being conducted in a specifi c fi eld, thus exposing students to groundbreaking research during their studies. Amsterdam is an inspiring city for students and
scientists alike. The close proximity of scientifi c institutes such as SEO Economic Research and the Tinbergen Institute facilitates and enriches research and independent study.
The UvA is a research university with a city as its campus. Many of the UvA’s facilities, such as the University Library and the student cultural organisation CREA, are located in the heart of Amsterdam. With the cultural and scientifi c institutes and UvA facilities spread across the city in this way, Amsterdam itself can be said to be the UvA’s true campus.
In the fi eld of academic research, the UvA has a reputation to uphold. The UvA is ranked 5�rd in the World University Rankings (THES, 2008). Furthermore, the UvA is the highest ranked university in the Netherlands. Since the UvA is in contact with universities across the globe, virtually every student can do part of the curriculum abroad or meet students from all over the world in their Amsterdam classroom. The UvA is a member of LERU, a network of renowned European research universities, including the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Zurich, Leuven, Leiden and Edinburgh.
University of AmsterdamContents
� www.feb.uva.nl/education 5 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
University of Amsterdam
City of Amsterdam
Amsterdam, famous for its historical buildings and canals, is a multi-faceted city bustling with knowledge, commerce, creativity and innovation. The tolerant atmosphere and the open-mindedness of its inhabitants form an inviting setting for scientists, entrepreneurs and artists alike. They frequently work together, inspiring and stimulating one another, with surprising discoveries, enterprises and creations as the result. It is this dynamic and challenging environment that attracts many national and international students to the city.
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is an exuberant small-scale metropolis where you quickly feel safe and welcome. The city of Rembrandt van Rijn, H.P. Berlage, Anne Frank and Johan Cruijff, it has a unique cultural and intellectual life. Countless museums, festivals and artistic groups stage exhibitions and performances all year round. In 2007 Amsterdam was deemed one of the top 15 cities worldwide in terms of quality of living. And with Schiphol, one of Europe’s major airports, a mere 20 minutes away, the world is just around the corner.
Named after the Amstel River, Amsterdam expanded rapidly from the thirteenth century onwards due to a thriving maritime industry,
to become the largest city of the Netherlands in 1500. During the seventeenth century, the so-called Dutch Golden Age, it grew into one of the wealthiest and most powerful cities in the world. It was then that its famous crescent-shaped canals were built. With its tradition of intellectual tolerance, Amsterdam attracted scholars and writers from abroad who were unable to fi nd the same level of freedom in their own countries. Baruch Spinoza and René Descartes fl ourished here, alongside Dutch painters, poets and scientists such as Johannes Vermeer, Constantijn Huygens and Antonie van Leeuwenhoek. Intellectual and cultural curiosity have prevailed in the Netherlands ever since. This same rich and diverse culture can be found in Amsterdam today, amid a more modern climate of forward-thinking professionalism. Education has always played a vital role in the development of Dutch culture. The UvA, as one of the largest centres of study and research in the Netherlands, continues to be one of its key players.
Studying in an international environment
In an effort to create an international environment in which learning and creativity can fl ourish, the UvA has always encouraged international
cooperation. It attracts students from all over the world, and presently has more than 2,500 international students and researchers from over 100 countries among its ranks. The UvA currently has one of the largest numbers of international study programmes of any university in Europe.
Most classes at the Master’s level include students with different nationalities and cultural backgrounds. In an era of globalisation and an increasingly international labour market, such an environment helps prepare students for their future careers. It also allows faculties to seek international standards of excellence. The curriculum is constantly being developed and today comprises more
than 80 study programmes taught entirely in English. As well as developing new programmes, the UvA constantly strives to improve the quality and effi ciency of existing programmes.
Faculty of Economics and Business
The Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) was established in 1922 and currently has around �,000 students. The FEB provides a high-level business curriculum with a strong academic basis for national and international undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate students. The Faculty has an excellent reputation both in the Netherlands and internationally.
Studying at the FEB also means studying in Amsterdam, a city that is a leader in fi nance and trade. International business was born in Amsterdam; the world’s fi rst public stock exchange was founded in Amsterdam and served as an example for stock markets all over the world. The fi rst multinational – the Dutch East India Company, or VOC – was also established here, providing further evidence of the entrepreneurial spirit of the Netherlands in general and Amsterdam in particular.
Amsterdam now has a broad-based economy, but the most important sectors, with over 120,000 jobs, continue to be business and fi nancial services. The Amsterdam Stock Exchange, the Dutch Central Bank and the global and regional head offi ces of numerous Dutch and international fi rms are what make Amsterdam the fi nancial and business heart of the Netherlands, as well as a prestigious international business centre. Master’s programmes at the FEB refl ect Amsterdam’s
international, entrepreneurial, intellectual and socially responsible traditions.
Internationalisation is a keyword at the FEB. The staff, student body, degree programmes and research all have a strong international focus. The Faculty has also developed a worldwide network of academic partnerships, offering both a wide range of opportunities for our students and a global platform for the exchange of knowledge.
6 www.feb.uva.nl/education 7 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business6 www.feb.uva.nl/education 7 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
City of Amsterdam
Amsterdam, famous for its historical buildings and canals, is a multi-faceted city bustling with knowledge, commerce, creativity and innovation. The tolerant atmosphere and the open-mindedness of its inhabitants form an inviting setting for scientists, entrepreneurs and artists alike. They frequently work together, inspiring and stimulating one another, with surprising discoveries, enterprises and creations as the result. It is this dynamic and challenging environment that attracts many national and international students to the city.
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is an exuberant small-scale metropolis where you quickly feel safe and welcome. The city of Rembrandt van Rijn, H.P. Berlage, Anne Frank and Johan Cruijff, it has a unique cultural and intellectual life. Countless museums, festivals and artistic groups stage exhibitions and performances all year round. In 2007 Amsterdam was deemed one of the top 15 cities worldwide in terms of quality of living. And with Schiphol, one of Europe’s major airports, a mere 20 minutes away, the world is just around the corner.
Named after the Amstel River, Amsterdam expanded rapidly from the thirteenth century onwards due to a thriving maritime industry,
to become the largest city of the Netherlands in 1500. During the seventeenth century, the so-called Dutch Golden Age, it grew into one of the wealthiest and most powerful cities in the world. It was then that its famous crescent-shaped canals were built. With its tradition of intellectual tolerance, Amsterdam attracted scholars and writers from abroad who were unable to fi nd the same level of freedom in their own countries. Baruch Spinoza and René Descartes fl ourished here, alongside Dutch painters, poets and scientists such as Johannes Vermeer, Constantijn Huygens and Antonie van Leeuwenhoek. Intellectual and cultural curiosity have prevailed in the Netherlands ever since. This same rich and diverse culture can be found in Amsterdam today, amid a more modern climate of forward-thinking professionalism. Education has always played a vital role in the development of Dutch culture. The UvA, as one of the largest centres of study and research in the Netherlands, continues to be one of its key players.
Studying in an international environment
In an effort to create an international environment in which learning and creativity can fl ourish, the UvA has always encouraged international
cooperation. It attracts students from all over the world, and presently has more than 2,500 international students and researchers from over 100 countries among its ranks. The UvA currently has one of the largest numbers of international study programmes of any university in Europe.
Most classes at the Master’s level include students with different nationalities and cultural backgrounds. In an era of globalisation and an increasingly international labour market, such an environment helps prepare students for their future careers. It also allows faculties to seek international standards of excellence. The curriculum is constantly being developed and today comprises more
than 80 study programmes taught entirely in English. As well as developing new programmes, the UvA constantly strives to improve the quality and effi ciency of existing programmes.
Faculty of Economics and Business
The Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) was established in 1922 and currently has around �,000 students. The FEB provides a high-level business curriculum with a strong academic basis for national and international undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate students. The Faculty has an excellent reputation both in the Netherlands and internationally.
Studying at the FEB also means studying in Amsterdam, a city that is a leader in fi nance and trade. International business was born in Amsterdam; the world’s fi rst public stock exchange was founded in Amsterdam and served as an example for stock markets all over the world. The fi rst multinational – the Dutch East India Company, or VOC – was also established here, providing further evidence of the entrepreneurial spirit of the Netherlands in general and Amsterdam in particular.
Amsterdam now has a broad-based economy, but the most important sectors, with over 120,000 jobs, continue to be business and fi nancial services. The Amsterdam Stock Exchange, the Dutch Central Bank and the global and regional head offi ces of numerous Dutch and international fi rms are what make Amsterdam the fi nancial and business heart of the Netherlands, as well as a prestigious international business centre. Master’s programmes at the FEB refl ect Amsterdam’s
international, entrepreneurial, intellectual and socially responsible traditions.
Internationalisation is a keyword at the FEB. The staff, student body, degree programmes and research all have a strong international focus. The Faculty has also developed a worldwide network of academic partnerships, offering both a wide range of opportunities for our students and a global platform for the exchange of knowledge.
6 www.feb.uva.nl/education 7 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business6 www.feb.uva.nl/education 7 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
■ Escola de Administração de
Empresas de São Paulo da
Fundação Getulio Vargas
■ Pontifi cia Universidad Católica de
Chili
■ Tech de Monterey
■ Universidad del Pacífi co
■ Universidad Torcuato di Tella
■ National ChengChi University
■ Chulalongkorn University
■ University of Arizona
■ Technological University
■ Stern Business School (NYU)
■ Boconni Business School
■ Norwegian School of Management
■ Universitat Pompeu Fabre
■ Copenhagen Business School
■ University of Warwick
■ UT1 Toulouse
■ Nanyang Technological University
■ University of Vienna
■ Indian Institute of Management
Ahmedabad
■ Leuven University
■ Institute de Politique Sociales:
Science Po, Paris
■ Athens School of Economics and
Business
■ Warsaw School of Economics
■ Université de Lausanne
■ Charles University in Prague
■ Academia de Studii Economice
Bucaresti
■ Indian Institute of Management
Calcutta
■ Peking University
■ Tsinghua University
■ Fudan University
■ Vietnam National University
Ho Chi Minh City
Selection of FEB partner universities
Amsterdam School of Economics
The Amsterdam School of Economics (ASE) offers several excellent Master’s study programmes in Economics, Econometrics, Actuarial Sciences and Operations Research and Management, all witha strong focus on research. ASE aims to train students for careers in research and leading positions in the public or private sector. Its educational programme fosters the academic ideal of integrated research and teaching. In addition to the regular Master’s programmes, ASE also offers a two-year Research Master of Philosophy in Economics hosted by the Tinbergen Institute, which was positively assessed in 2005 by an international peer review committee of leading scholars chaired by Prof. Dale W. Jorgenson of Harvard University. Faculty members in the research programmes work on various topics in the broad fi eld of economics and econometrics and publish in top economics journals such as the American Economic Review, Quarterly Journal of Economics, Review of Economic Studies, Journal of Political Economy and Econometrics and in various specialised journals, such as Experimental Economics and Labour Economics.
Master’s programmes ■ MSc Economics ■ MSc Econometrics ■ MSc Actuarial Sciences ■ Master of Philosophy in
Economics (MSc)
Amsterdam Business School
The Amsterdam Business School (ABS) is responsible for all of the FEB’s business programmes, ranging from Bachelor’s and Master’s to postgraduate, MBA and Executive Master’s programmes. All of the Master of Science programmes are taught in English with the exception of Fiscal Economics, which focuses on topics specifi c to the Dutch situation. The Bachelor’s programmes are taught in both Dutch and English. The degree programmes have a strong international perspective and are taught by an international staff of lecturers and researchers. The ABS educational philosophy is characterised by small-scale interactive seminars and workshops and case-based programmes designed to stimulate active student participation.
Master’s programmes ■ MSc Accountancy & Control ■ MSc Business Economics ■ MSc Business Studies
Advanced Master’s programmes ■ The Amsterdam MBA ■ Master of International Finance■ Independent Executive MBA ■ international Executive Master
in Finance and Control
Accreditation
All of our Master’s programmes have been positively assessed by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO). Upon completion of their Master’s programme, students receive an accredited Master’s degree. For more information please visit www.nvao.net.
In 2007, the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) awarded EQUIS accreditation to ABS. ABS is one of around 100 elite schools, including the London Business School, INSEAD and IMD, that have been awarded this accreditation worldwide.
Teaching
Students at the UvA are exposed to diverse teaching methods. Assessment for participation in a course can be based on a written examination, a test, a paper or a combination of all three.
The academic year
The academic year of the UvA runs from 1 September to mid-July and is divided into two semesters of 21 weeks each. The fi rst semester runs from early September to early February, the second from early February to mid-July. The duration of individual programmes can be found in the specifi c programme descriptions at www.uva.nl/isp.
Credit system
Semesters are composed of units called courses. Each course yields 5 to 10 ECTS credits, in accordance with the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). This makes it possible to transfer credits more easily between European academic institutions. A full-time study for one academic year yields 60 credits, corresponding to 1,680 hours of study.
EFMD
8 www.feb.uva.nl/education 9 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business8 www.feb.uva.nl/education 9 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
General informationOne Faculty, two Schools
Amsterdam School of Economics
The Amsterdam School of Economics (ASE) offers several excellent Master’s study programmes in Economics, Econometrics, Actuarial Sciences and Operations Research and Management, all witha strong focus on research. ASE aims to train students for careers in research and leading positions in the public or private sector. Its educational programme fosters the academic ideal of integrated research and teaching. In addition to the regular Master’s programmes, ASE also offers a two-year Research Master of Philosophy in Economics hosted by the Tinbergen Institute, which was positively assessed in 2005 by an international peer review committee of leading scholars chaired by Prof. Dale W. Jorgenson of Harvard University. Faculty members in the research programmes work on various topics in the broad fi eld of economics and econometrics and publish in top economics journals such as the American Economic Review, Quarterly Journal of Economics, Review of Economic Studies, Journal of Political Economy and Econometrics and in various specialised journals, such as Experimental Economics and Labour Economics.
Master’s programmes ■ MSc Economics ■ MSc Econometrics ■ MSc Actuarial Sciences ■ Master of Philosophy in
Economics (MSc)
Amsterdam Business School
The Amsterdam Business School (ABS) is responsible for all of the FEB’s business programmes, ranging from Bachelor’s and Master’s to postgraduate, MBA and Executive Master’s programmes. All of the Master of Science programmes are taught in English with the exception of Fiscal Economics, which focuses on topics specifi c to the Dutch situation. The Bachelor’s programmes are taught in both Dutch and English. The degree programmes have a strong international perspective and are taught by an international staff of lecturers and researchers. The ABS educational philosophy is characterised by small-scale interactive seminars and workshops and case-based programmes designed to stimulate active student participation.
Master’s programmes ■ MSc Accountancy & Control ■ MSc Business Economics ■ MSc Business Studies
Advanced Master’s programmes ■ The Amsterdam MBA ■ Master of International Finance■ Independent Executive MBA ■ international Executive Master
in Finance and Control
Accreditation
All of our Master’s programmes have been positively assessed by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO). Upon completion of their Master’s programme, students receive an accredited Master’s degree. For more information please visit www.nvao.net.
In 2007, the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) awarded EQUIS accreditation to ABS. ABS is one of around 100 elite schools, including the London Business School, INSEAD and IMD, that have been awarded this accreditation worldwide.
Teaching
Students at the UvA are exposed to diverse teaching methods. Assessment for participation in a course can be based on a written examination, a test, a paper or a combination of all three.
The academic year
The academic year of the UvA runs from 1 September to mid-July and is divided into two semesters of 21 weeks each. The fi rst semester runs from early September to early February, the second from early February to mid-July. The duration of individual programmes can be found in the specifi c programme descriptions at www.uva.nl/isp.
Credit system
Semesters are composed of units called courses. Each course yields 5 to 10 ECTS credits, in accordance with the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). This makes it possible to transfer credits more easily between European academic institutions. A full-time study for one academic year yields 60 credits, corresponding to 1,680 hours of study.
International Master’s programmes in Economics and Business
Programme Degree Mode of study Duration
Accountancy & Control MSc Full-time/Part-time 1 year/1.5 years
Actuarial Sciences MSc Full-time 1 year
Business Administration MBA Full-time/Part-time 1 year/2 years
Business Administration MBA Part-time (modular) 1.5 years
Business Economics MSc Full-time 1 year
Business Studies MSc Full-time/Part-time 1 year/1.5 years
Econometrics MSc Full-time 1 year
Economics MSc Full-time 1 year
Economics (Research) MSc Full-time 2 years
Finance and Control EMFC (RC) Part-time 2.5 years
International Finance MSc Full-time/Part-time 1 year/2 years
8 www.feb.uva.nl/education 9 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business8 www.feb.uva.nl/education 9 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
General informationOne Faculty, two Schools
Grading system
10 excellent
9 very good
8 good
7 satisfactory (above average)
6 pass
1 to 5 fail
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years
part-time
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Dr Sander van Triest
The Master’s programme in Accountancy & Control is an intensive and selective programme with a high standard of academic education. The programme has a strong international focus in terms of its content, academic staff and student body. Graduates of the programme are qualifi ed for fi nancial positions not only in auditing and consultancy, but also in industry, banking and government. The programme consists of an Accountancy track and a Control track.
Programme structure and curriculumThe Accountancy track is intended for students with an interest in fi nancial information fl ows from and within organisations. Students learn to analyse and satisfy the information needs of senior managers and other stakeholders, both internal and external.
Courses in the Control track provide a multidisciplinary perspective, integrating insights from economics, psychology and organisation theory.
Graduates therefore have a unique knowledge base of specialised insight into the fi elds of fi nance and accounting, as well as a thorough understanding of how accounting information can be used to manage real-world organisations.
The UvA offers intensive programmes in Accountancy & Control for students who wish to combine their Master’s programme with a four-day work week.
Career prospectsAccountancy & Control Master’s students learn to look at various types of organisations from both a fi nancial and an economic perspective, giving them valuable knowledge, understanding, professional experience and expertise. Job prospects are therefore excellent. In addition to careers as accountants, either under contract or self-employed, Accountancy & Control graduates are qualifi ed for a variety of other positions, including as controllers, fi nancial directors and fi nancial and general management professionals.
‘All my classes were small in size,
interactive in nature and taught
by renowned professors with
real-world experience.’ Matthias Kowalsky
10 www.feb.uva.nl/education 11 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business10 www.feb.uva.nl/education 11 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Accountancy & Control
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years
part-time
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Dr Sander van Triest
The Master’s programme in Accountancy & Control is an intensive and selective programme with a high standard of academic education. The programme has a strong international focus in terms of its content, academic staff and student body. Graduates of the programme are qualified for financial positions not only in auditing and consultancy, but also in industry, banking and government. The programme consists of an Accountancy track and a Control track.
Programme structure and curriculumThe Accountancy track is intended for students with an interest in financial information flows from and within organisations. Students learn to analyse and satisfy the information needs of senior managers and other stakeholders, both internal and external.
Courses in the Control track provide a multidisciplinary perspective, integrating insights from economics, psychology and organisation theory.
Graduates therefore have a unique knowledge base of specialised insight into the fields of finance and accounting, as well as a thorough understanding of how accounting information can be used to manage real-world organisations.
The UvA offers intensive programmes in Accountancy & Control for students who wish to combine their Master’s programme with a four-day work week.
Career prospectsAccountancy & Control Master’s students learn to look at various types of organisations from both a financial and an economic perspective, giving them valuable knowledge, understanding, professional experience and expertise. Job prospects are therefore excellent. In addition to careers as accountants, either under contract or self-employed, Accountancy & Control graduates are qualified for a variety of other positions, including as controllers, financial directors and financial and general management professionals.
Brendan O’Dwyer from Ireland Professor of Accounting
‘The Master’s programme in Accountancy & Control aims to provide students with a strong
analytical knowledge base, combining academic rigour with practical applications. This
combination is aimed at instilling in students an intellectual curiosity fostering the life-long
learning competencies that are essential to any career in business and accounting. The
academic programme relies on the most up-to-date international research to give students
a thorough, contemporary understanding of how accounting information can be used to
manage and evaluate real-world organisations. High quality, committed, award-winning
lecturers guide students through the programme. This guidance enables students to conduct
and deliver excellent independent research in their Master’s thesis.’
10 www.feb.uva.nl/education 11 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business10 www.feb.uva.nl/education 11 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Matthias Kowalsky from GermanyAlumnus, Accountancy & Control
(Accountancy track)
‘After having worked for a few years,
I decided that it was time to go back
to school and get my Master’s degree.
I was looking for a university with a
business school that offered advanced
programmes in accounting that were
taught in English. The Master’s
programme in Accountancy & Control at
the UvA proved to be an ideal fit for me.
Even though the UvA is a large university,
the quality of services and teaching is
good. All my classes were small in size
(20-30 students), interactive in nature and
taught by renowned professors with real-
world experience. The content of classes
is relevant to a career in accounting,
control or auditing and is internationally
orientated, which makes the Master’s
programme in Accountancy & Control an
excellent option for international students.’
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director: Prof. Rob Kaas
The Master’s programme in Actuarial Sciences is the only stand-alone programme of its kind in the Netherlands. One of the features that makes it unique is the wide range of courses in which students can learn about the latest international developments, for example in Fair Value Techniques, Market-Consistent Embedded Value and Solvency II. The programme is taught by leading academics in the fi eld of Actuarial Sciences. In addition, by employing several teachers who work in the industry, we make sure that our students are taught the most up-to-date techniques, practices and insights.
Programme structure and curriculumActuarial Sciences is a multidisciplinary Master’s programme that provides balanced and rigorous training in the fi nancial and mathematical analysis of complex issues in insurance. It focuses on mathematical model-building in the various specialised fi elds of insurance: life insurance,
non-life insurance and pension funds. Since the programme as a whole is aimed at developing a scientifi c attitude and approach, it places a great deal of emphasis on the theoretical foundations of various methods and techniques.
The Master’s programme in Actuarial Science is divided into two semesters, each consisting of
two terms. Students take three core courses and three electives during the fi rst semester, and one core course and two electives during the second. Students conclude their studies with a Master’s thesis, carried out under the supervision of an actuarial researcher within the Department of Quantitative Economics. Upon successful completion of the programme,
students receive a Master’s degree in Actuarial Sciences and the title Master of Science (MSc).
Career prospectsThe Master’s programme in Actuarial Sciences is a one-year programme intended for those who wish to work as an actuary, i.e. an insurance mathematician. An actuary designs and monitors fi nancial security systems. The actuarial profession is currently in a period of transition and has also come to encompass fi nancial risk management outside the insurance sector.
Graduates with a Master’s degree in Actuarial Sciences have excellent career prospects. Many fi nd employment as actuaries or risk managers with insurance companies, actuarial consultancy fi rms or pension funds. The Master’s programme in Actuarial Sciences also provides a good foundation for pursuing a PhD degree.
Prof. Antoon Pelsser (The Netherlands)Professor of Actuarial ScienceProfessor Pelsser’s research interests focus on the pricing and market-consistent valuation of insurance contracts, Asset-Liability Management (ALM) for insurance companies and pricing models for interest rate derivatives. From 2001
until 2006, Prof. Pelsser held a part-time position as Professor of Mathematical Finance at Erasmus University Rotterdam.In addition to his academic career, he has also worked in the fi nancial industry. From 200� until 2007, he worked in ING Group’s Corporate Insurance Risk Management department, where he was involved in implementing a new internal model for measuring economic capital for ING-Insurance. From 2000 until 200�, he worked as Head of ALM for Nationale-Nederlanden. Prior to this, he worked in the dealing-room of ABN-Amro Bank in Amsterdam for seven years, where he was responsible for the development of pricing models for derivatives.
Actuarial Sciences
12 www.feb.uva.nl/education 1� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business12 www.feb.uva.nl/education 1� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
‘My current work is an extension
of my thesis research topic. I provide
advice to pension funds in the area
of policy.’ Martin Bakker
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director: Prof. Rob Kaas
The Master’s programme in Actuarial Sciences is the only stand-alone programme of its kind in the Netherlands. One of the features that makes it unique is the wide range of courses in which students can learn about the latest international developments, for example in Fair Value Techniques, Market-Consistent Embedded Value and Solvency II. The programme is taught by leading academics in the fi eld of Actuarial Sciences. In addition, by employing several teachers who work in the industry, we make sure that our students are taught the most up-to-date techniques, practices and insights.
Programme structure and curriculumActuarial Sciences is a multidisciplinary Master’s programme that provides balanced and rigorous training in the fi nancial and mathematical analysis of complex issues in insurance. It focuses on mathematical model-building in the various specialised fi elds of insurance: life insurance,
non-life insurance and pension funds. Since the programme as a whole is aimed at developing a scientifi c attitude and approach, it places a great deal of emphasis on the theoretical foundations of various methods and techniques.
The Master’s programme in Actuarial Science is divided into two semesters, each consisting of
two terms. Students take three core courses and three electives during the fi rst semester, and one core course and two electives during the second. Students conclude their studies with a Master’s thesis, carried out under the supervision of an actuarial researcher within the Department of Quantitative Economics. Upon successful completion of the programme,
students receive a Master’s degree in Actuarial Sciences and the title Master of Science (MSc).
Career prospectsThe Master’s programme in Actuarial Sciences is a one-year programme intended for those who wish to work as an actuary, i.e. an insurance mathematician. An actuary designs and monitors fi nancial security systems. The actuarial profession is currently in a period of transition and has also come to encompass fi nancial risk management outside the insurance sector.
Graduates with a Master’s degree in Actuarial Sciences have excellent career prospects. Many fi nd employment as actuaries or risk managers with insurance companies, actuarial consultancy fi rms or pension funds. The Master’s programme in Actuarial Sciences also provides a good foundation for pursuing a PhD degree.
Prof. Antoon Pelsser (The Netherlands)Professor of Actuarial ScienceProfessor Pelsser’s research interests focus on the pricing and market-consistent valuation of insurance contracts, Asset-Liability Management (ALM) for insurance companies and pricing models for interest rate derivatives. From 2001
until 2006, Prof. Pelsser held a part-time position as Professor of Mathematical Finance at Erasmus University Rotterdam.In addition to his academic career, he has also worked in the fi nancial industry. From 200� until 2007, he worked in ING Group’s Corporate Insurance Risk Management department, where he was involved in implementing a new internal model for measuring economic capital for ING-Insurance. From 2000 until 200�, he worked as Head of ALM for Nationale-Nederlanden. Prior to this, he worked in the dealing-room of ABN-Amro Bank in Amsterdam for seven years, where he was responsible for the development of pricing models for derivatives.
Actuarial Sciences
12 www.feb.uva.nl/education 1� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business12 www.feb.uva.nl/education 1� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Martin Bakker from the Netherlands Alumnus, Actuarial Sciences
‘The Master’s programme in Actuarial
Sciences made a good impression on
me when I attended the open day at the
UvA. The excellent quality of the
programme was emphasised, along with
the fact that it enjoys a good reputation
in the business world. Although the
programme is quite demanding, your
efforts are rewarded. In a short period of
time, you learn a great deal and this is
very satisfying. Some extremely good
courses were given in ALM (Asset Liability
Management) and I have to say that
these were my favourites. In fact, after my
studies, ALM became my profession.
I’m now working at a company called
ORTEC. This is a company that provides
advanced software solutions and
consultancy services in the area of
planning and optimisation. My current
work is an extension of my thesis research
topic. I provide advice to pension funds in
the area of policy: how can the risks of an
economic downturn be managed for
employees, retired employees and
sponsors? This involves process of
collecting data, creating models and
calculations, analysing and presenting the
fi ndings. You can defi nitely say that my
programme is strongly related to my
work.’
‘By quantifying business cases, you learn
the reasoning behind human behaviour
within organisations.’ Mijke van Ballegooijen
1� www.feb.uva.nl/education 15 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business1� www.feb.uva.nl/education 15 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme coordinators:
Dr. Alessandro Beber (Finance),
dr. Jeroen Hinloopen (Organisation
Economics), drs. Gerjan Vos (Real
Estate Finance)
Would you like to learn how organisations work? Do you want to know how they make the right investment decisions and how management and staff can be motivated to create as much value for the company as possible? The Master’s programme in Business Economics gives you the tools and knowledge you need to work for a wide range of organisations in both the commercial and governmental sectors. It is a specialised programme for students with a background in business economics who want to focus on organisational and fi nancing issues.
Programme structure and curriculumThe Master’s programme in Business Economics has three tracks, each with its own professional profi le:■ Finance■ Organisation Economics ■ Real Estate Finance.
The Finance track concentrates on the workings of fi nancial markets, the fi nancial and economic management of organisations and the use of fi nancial tools by companies and investors. The programme is built around specialised modules, for example, on commercial banking, corporate fi nance, investment theory, managing bond portfolio risks, fi nancial markets, international fi nance and so on.
The Organisation Economics track examines the economic performance of organisations in broad terms, staff motivation, allocation of decision-making powers, investment decisions, corporate governance and corporate functioning in various types of markets. The course in Economics of Organisation and Management forms the foundation for this track. Students then choose between four further specialisations: Industrial Organisation, Microeconomics, Management Accounting and Corporate Finance. The Faculty of Economics and Business is one of the few economics faculties in Europe offering a specialisation in Organisation Economics.
The Real Estate Finance track is designed to provide advanced insight and training in the fi nancial and economic aspects of commercial real estate. This specialised real estate programme draws on the UvA’s established history of conducting real estate research in Amsterdam in conjunction with the real estate industry itself.
Career prospectsThe Finance track opens up a wide range of career opportunities, for example, as an all-round fi nancial analyst, an investment adviser at a merchant bank or perhaps eventually a fi nancial director of a company.
The Real Estate Finance track is ideal for students seeking a career in the real estate industry and related fi nance. The Organisation Economics track prepares students for management or research positions requiring a knowledge and understanding of economic perspectives with respect to organisations and strategy.
Prof. Enrico Perotti (Italy)Professor of International Finance Chair, Finance Group After obtaining his PhD in Finance from MIT in 1990, Prof. Enrico Perotti taught at Boston University and the London School of Economics. His research interests are: corporate fi nance and governance, international fi nance, political economy and innovation.
He publishes regularly in top academic journals. Prof. Perotti is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR), Director of the Amsterdam Center for Research in International Finance (CIFRA), Fellow of the Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan and a member of the National Bureau of Economic Research’s (NBER) research group on Entrepreneurship. He has acted as a consultant for the IMF, the World Bank, the EC and the New York Stock Exchange, amongst others. In the last two years he has been a guest at the IMF research department, the London Business School and the London School of Economics, and has given seminars at Harvard, MIT, Yale, Brown, Berkeley and NYU.
Business Economics
1� www.feb.uva.nl/education 15 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business1� www.feb.uva.nl/education 15 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme coordinators:
Dr. Alessandro Beber (Finance),
dr. Jeroen Hinloopen (Organisation
Economics), drs. Gerjan Vos (Real
Estate Finance)
Would you like to learn how organisations work? Do you want to know how they make the right investment decisions and how management and staff can be motivated to create as much value for the company as possible? The Master’s programme in Business Economics gives you the tools and knowledge you need to work for a wide range of organisations in both the commercial and governmental sectors. It is a specialised programme for students with a background in business economics who want to focus on organisational and financing issues.
Programme structure and curriculumThe Master’s programme in Business Economics has three tracks, each with its own professional profile:■ Finance■ Organisation Economics ■ Real Estate Finance.
The Finance track concentrates on the workings of financial markets, the financial and economic management of organisations and the use of financial tools by companies and investors. The programme is built around specialised modules, for example, on commercial banking, corporate finance, investment theory, managing bond portfolio risks, financial markets, international finance and so on.
The Organisation Economics track examines the economic performance of organisations in broad terms, staff motivation, allocation of decision-making powers, investment decisions, corporate governance and corporate functioning in various types of markets. The course in Economics of Organisation and Management forms the foundation for this track. Students then choose between four further specialisations: Industrial Organisation, Microeconomics, Management Accounting and Corporate Finance. The Faculty of Economics and Business is one of the few economics faculties in Europe offering a specialisation in Organisation Economics.
The Real Estate Finance track is designed to provide advanced insight and training in the financial and economic aspects of commercial real estate. This specialised real estate programme draws on the UvA’s established history of conducting real estate research in Amsterdam in conjunction with the real estate industry itself.
Career prospectsThe Finance track opens up a wide range of career opportunities, for example, as an all-round financial analyst, an investment adviser at a merchant bank or perhaps eventually a financial director of a company.
The Real Estate Finance track is ideal for students seeking a career in the real estate industry and related finance. The Organisation Economics track prepares students for management or research positions requiring a knowledge and understanding of economic perspectives with respect to organisations and strategy.
Prof. Enrico Perotti (Italy)Professor of International Finance Chair, Finance Group After obtaining his PhD in Finance from MIT in 1990, Prof. Enrico Perotti taught at Boston University and the London School of Economics. His research interests are: corporate finance and governance, international finance, political economy and innovation.
He publishes regularly in top academic journals. Prof. Perotti is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR), Director of the Amsterdam Center for Research in International Finance (CIFRA), Fellow of the Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan and a member of the National Bureau of Economic Research’s (NBER) research group on Entrepreneurship. He has acted as a consultant for the IMF, the World Bank, the EC and the New York Stock Exchange, amongst others. In the last two years he has been a guest at the IMF research department, the London Business School and the London School of Economics, and has given seminars at Harvard, MIT, Yale, Brown, Berkeley and NYU.
Business Economics
Mijke van Ballegooijen from the Netherlands Alumna, Business Economics
‘When I started to think about what I was
going to study, I was unsure whether to
choose Business Studies or Business
Economics. Even after I enrolled at the
UvA, I still hadn’t made up my mind
which track to take. It was only when I
had the choice of taking Economics of
Organisation and Management that I
decided to finish my degree in Business
Economics. Finally, things fell into place
for me. In examining the economics of
organisations, certain situations become
more concrete. By quantifying business
cases, you learn the reasoning behind
human behaviour within organisations.
You find out how to base decisions about
corporate policy on economic models.
During the course, we had to solve a
couple of business cases, which was not
only challenging but also illustrative of the
kind of work you can expect to do after
graduation.’
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Dr Jeroen Hinloopen
The Master’s programme in Economics teaches students to become the creative and versatile economists our labour market needs today. It provides both an effective framework and a set of tools for systematically analysing a great variety of economic issues. Students choose courses from an extensive course list. The courses combine training in economic theory with application of economics tools used for practical implementation. The precise proportion of theory and application depends on the courses selected. Students can opt for a theoretical approach and focus on courses such as Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Game Theory and Experimental Economics. They can also choose for an emphasis on application and take courses such as Development Economics, Industrial Organisation and Labour Economics.
Programme structure and curriculumThe Master’s programme in Economics is a one-year programme divided into four blocks (two semesters of two blocks each), in which students must attain a total of 60 ECTS credits to complete the degree.
Students can choose between a general Master’s programme in Economics or a Master’s programme in Economics with a Major specialisation. Majors are offered in the following nine fi elds:■ Macroeconomics ■ Microeconomics ■ History of Economic Theory
and Methodology of Economics
■ Public Economics ■ Industrial Organisation ■ International Economics ■ Development Economics ■ Monetary Economics and
Financial Institutions ■ International Financial Economics.
Career prospectsGraduates of the Master’s programme in Economics have skills that will enable them to work in a variety of occupations. They can work in the Ministries of Finance, Economic Affairs and Social Affairs, government agencies such as the Netherlands Competition Authority, the Dutch Central Bank, various private banks and international organisations such as the IMF,
OECD and World Bank, as well as in organisations in eastern Europe.
Prof. Lex Hoogduin (The Netherlands)Professor of Monetary EconomicsProf. Lex Hoogduin combines his post as Head of IRIS with his position as Robeco’s Chief Economist. In addition to his functions at Robeco and IRIS, Prof. Hoogduin also holds the chairin Monetary Economics and Financial Institutions at the UvA.
He earned his Master’s degree in General Economics and completed his PhD at the University of Groningen. He has served in senior positions at the Dutch Central Bank for a number of years and was the former adviser to the President of the European Monetary Institute. He is a Fellow of the Netherlands Network of Economics (NAKE) and a member of the Advisory Council of the Tilburg Center of Finance.
Economics
16 www.feb.uva.nl/education 17 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business16 www.feb.uva.nl/education 17 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Dr Jeroen Hinloopen
The Master’s programme in Economics teaches students to become the creative and versatile economists our labour market needs today. It provides both an effective framework and a set of tools for systematically analysing a great variety of economic issues. Students choose courses from an extensive course list. The courses combine training in economic theory with application of economics tools used for practical implementation. The precise proportion of theory and application depends on the courses selected. Students can opt for a theoretical approach and focus on courses such as Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Game Theory and Experimental Economics. They can also choose for an emphasis on application and take courses such as Development Economics, Industrial Organisation and Labour Economics.
Programme structure and curriculumThe Master’s programme in Economics is a one-year programme divided into four blocks (two semesters of two blocks each), in which students must attain a total of 60 ECTS credits to complete the degree.
Students can choose between a general Master’s programme in Economics or a Master’s programme in Economics with a Major specialisation. Majors are offered in the following nine fi elds:■ Macroeconomics ■ Microeconomics ■ History of Economic Theory
and Methodology of Economics
■ Public Economics ■ Industrial Organisation ■ International Economics ■ Development Economics ■ Monetary Economics and
Financial Institutions ■ International Financial Economics.
Career prospectsGraduates of the Master’s programme in Economics have skills that will enable them to work in a variety of occupations. They can work in the Ministries of Finance, Economic Affairs and Social Affairs, government agencies such as the Netherlands Competition Authority, the Dutch Central Bank, various private banks and international organisations such as the IMF,
OECD and World Bank, as well as in organisations in eastern Europe.
Prof. Lex Hoogduin (The Netherlands)Professor of Monetary EconomicsProf. Lex Hoogduin combines his post as Head of IRIS with his position as Robeco’s Chief Economist. In addition to his functions at Robeco and IRIS, Prof. Hoogduin also holds the chairin Monetary Economics and Financial Institutions at the UvA.
He earned his Master’s degree in General Economics and completed his PhD at the University of Groningen. He has served in senior positions at the Dutch Central Bank for a number of years and was the former adviser to the President of the European Monetary Institute. He is a Fellow of the Netherlands Network of Economics (NAKE) and a member of the Advisory Council of the Tilburg Center of Finance.
Economics
16 www.feb.uva.nl/education 17 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business16 www.feb.uva.nl/education 17 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
‘The programme attracted me because
of the option of a pure economics degree
with various options for specialisation
and the fact that it is an international
programme with students from all over
the world.’ Tally Eldor
Tally Eldor from Israel Student, Economics
‘As soon as I fi nished my army service
I left Israel and went travelling. Living in
various countries with different standards
of living was my fi rst life lesson in
economics. I later expanded this with
academic experience by doing my
Bachelor’s degree in Economics in Tel Aviv,
where I graduated in 1998. The day after
my last exam I left for Australia, where
I continued my adventures for another
two years before coming to the
Netherlands in 2000. The Master’s
programme at the UvA attracted me
because of the option of a pure
economics degree with various options
for specialisation and the fact that it is an
international programme with students
from all over the world. The programme
is very good and has interesting courses.’
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Dr Kees Jan van Garderen
The Master’s programme in Econometrics is a multidisciplinary programme that provides balanced and rigorous training in quantitative analysis of problems in economics and fi nance.
Programme structure and curriculumThe programme has four tracks: ■ Econometrics ■ Financial Econometrics ■ Mathematical Economics■ Free track.
The Econometrics track emphasises statistical techniques for micro-economic and macro-econometric analysis. Financial Econometrics focuses on mathematical and statistical techniques and their application to fi nancial models and time series. Mathematical Economics emphasises the mathematical modelling of economic and fi nancial markets. Each track offers electives and fi eld courses from which students can choose.
If you choose the free track, a fl exible mixture of the three tracks is also possible.
By the end of the Master’s programme, students will be able to apply advanced mathematical and statistical methods - using such modern software packages as
E-Views and OX - to the exploration and analysis of problems in economics and fi nance.
Career prospectsGraduates of the Master’s programme in Econometrics have a diverse range of excellent job prospects. Many graduates fi nd
employment in economic policy research departments (e.g. central planning bureaus or governmental institutions) or in the fi nancial sector (pension funds, investments banks, insurance companies).
Prof. Peter Boswijk (The Netherlands)Professor of Financial EconometricsProf. Peter Boswijk is also Head of the Department of Quantitative Economics. After obtaining his PhD from the UvA with a thesis on the econometric analysis of non-stationary time series, he received a fi ve-year research grant from the KNAW.
He is a Fellow of the Tinbergen Institute, was a Founding Editor of The Econometrics Journal and publishes regularly in such international journals as the Journal of Business and Economic Statistics, Journal of Econometrics and the Journal of Applied Econometrics and Econometric Theory. He has held visiting positions at the University of California in San Diego and at the Universities of Oxford, Aarhus and Trondheim. His current research focuses on effi cient (likelihood-based) inference methods for fi nancial time series, taking into account non-normality and volatility clustering of returns. He has taught courses on intermediate and advanced econometrics, fi nancial econometrics, asymptotic theory and stochastic calculus.
Econometrics
‘The econometrics programme
at the UvA has an excellent
reputation.’ Daniel Ilyas
18 www.feb.uva.nl/education 19 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business18 www.feb.uva.nl/education 19 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Dr Kees Jan van Garderen
The Master’s programme in Econometrics is a multidisciplinary programme that provides balanced and rigorous training in quantitative analysis of problems in economics and fi nance.
Programme structure and curriculumThe programme has four tracks: ■ Econometrics ■ Financial Econometrics ■ Mathematical Economics■ Free track.
The Econometrics track emphasises statistical techniques for micro-economic and macro-econometric analysis. Financial Econometrics focuses on mathematical and statistical techniques and their application to fi nancial models and time series. Mathematical Economics emphasises the mathematical modelling of economic and fi nancial markets. Each track offers electives and fi eld courses from which students can choose.
If you choose the free track, a fl exible mixture of the three tracks is also possible.
By the end of the Master’s programme, students will be able to apply advanced mathematical and statistical methods - using such modern software packages as
E-Views and OX - to the exploration and analysis of problems in economics and fi nance.
Career prospectsGraduates of the Master’s programme in Econometrics have a diverse range of excellent job prospects. Many graduates fi nd
employment in economic policy research departments (e.g. central planning bureaus or governmental institutions) or in the fi nancial sector (pension funds, investments banks, insurance companies).
Prof. Peter Boswijk (The Netherlands)Professor of Financial EconometricsProf. Peter Boswijk is also Head of the Department of Quantitative Economics. After obtaining his PhD from the UvA with a thesis on the econometric analysis of non-stationary time series, he received a fi ve-year research grant from the KNAW.
He is a Fellow of the Tinbergen Institute, was a Founding Editor of The Econometrics Journal and publishes regularly in such international journals as the Journal of Business and Economic Statistics, Journal of Econometrics and the Journal of Applied Econometrics and Econometric Theory. He has held visiting positions at the University of California in San Diego and at the Universities of Oxford, Aarhus and Trondheim. His current research focuses on effi cient (likelihood-based) inference methods for fi nancial time series, taking into account non-normality and volatility clustering of returns. He has taught courses on intermediate and advanced econometrics, fi nancial econometrics, asymptotic theory and stochastic calculus.
Econometrics
18 www.feb.uva.nl/education 19 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business18 www.feb.uva.nl/education 19 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Dhaniel Ilyas from Indonesia Student, Econometrics
‘I have always dreamed of studying in
Europe because of its history, beauty
and rich cultures. I have always been
interested in studying in fi elds connected
to my Bachelor’s degree in Economics.
Knowledge of econometrics is very useful
for economic analysis and will surely help
me advance my career. I was very happy
to learn I had been accepted into the
Master’s programme in Econometrics but
I also realised how tough it was going
to be, since the econometrics programme
at the UvA has an excellent reputation.
I nonetheless wanted to take advantage
of the opportunity, and applied for the
STUNED scholarship. Fortunately I got
the scholarship and started studying and
living in Amsterdam. The lecturers are
very helpful and supportive. Students
have to put in a lot of hard work to
understand the material thoroughly.
The courses are interesting and taught
me a lot of new things that will be useful
in my career.’
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Prof. Deanne den Hartog
The Master’s programme in Business Studies trains students to analyse complex organisational issues and to produce practical solutions. This requires not only a thorough knowledge of specialist business literature, but also the ability to apply that knowledge in practice. Business Studies takes a multidisciplinary approach to organisational issues in context. Analyses and solutions that are perfectly rational when considered in the framework of any one given disciplinary area – for instance economics, psychology, sociology or political science – will almost always have repercussions in other areas of the organisation. By viewing issues in a coordinated, plural and managerial way, their consequences can be mapped coherently.
Programme structure and curriculum The programme allows students to choose three Master’s courses (10 ECTS credits each) from at least two of the following specialisations:
■ Strategy and Organisation ■ Information Management■ Governance and Valuation ■ Entrepreneurship ■ Marketing ■ Human Research Management ■ Cultural Industries. Core courses in Professional and Research Orientation (5 credits), Design Master Thesis (5 credits) and the Master’s thesis (20 credits) complete the curriculum.
Career prospectsA Master’s degree in Business Studies opens up a wide range of interesting career opportunities. Graduates are ideally suited for positions that use business analysis and reflection to strategically and operationally enhance the functioning, improvement and renewal of commercial and non-commercial organisations. Examples of such positions include organisational consultant, strategic analyst, project leader, HRM manager, information analyst, information manager, account manager, product manager and financial manager.
Prof. Nachoem Wijnberg (The Netherlands)Professor of Cultural Entrepreneurship and Management Prof. Nachoem Wijnberg holds Master’s degrees in Law and Economics, as well as a PhD in
Management. His research interests are cultural industries, strategic management and entrepreneurship and innovation. New scientific publications are published frequently. Besides his work as a Professor, Nachoem Wijnberg has written novels and poetry. His literary work has received numerous awards, and some of it has been translated.
20 www.feb.uva.nl/education 21 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business20 www.feb.uva.nl/education 21 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Business Studies
‘The Netherlands attracted me because
of its high level of education, widespread
use of the English language and efficient
national economy.’ Kristina Sabulyte
Kristina Sabulyte from Lithuania Student, Business Studies
‘After I got my Bachelor’s degree in
Business Management and Administration
in Lithuania, I started the Master’s
programme in Business Studies. The
Netherlands attracted me because of its
high level of education, widespread use
of the English language and efficient
national economy. I chose the UvA
because I wanted to deepen my
professional knowledge and skills,
broaden my knowledge of English and
acquire a more international perspective.
The programme provides an efficient way
of learning, involving literature review
focused on original publications, case
studies, group work and research studies.
The lecturers are well-prepared
academically and always willing to help
the students.’
Master of Philosophy in Economics
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 2 years
Credits: 120 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director: Prof. Erik Plug
The Tinbergen Institute (TI) is the Research and Graduate School of the economics faculties of the UvA, Erasmus University Rotterdam and VU University Amsterdam. The programme maintains its high standards by selecting teaching staff from amongst the best researchers of the TI’s three participating economics departments and by inviting internationally renowned experts as guest lecturers. The programme’s high quality is also maintained by carefully selecting only the best students from the large, international pool of applicants.
Programme structure and curriculum The fi rst year of the Tinbergen Institute Master of Philosophy programme in Economics offers rigorous training in the core subjects and tools of economics, including: microeconomics, macroeconomics, mathematics, statistics and econometrics. In the second year, students choose a specialisation from among one of the TI’s many fi elds of
research, and complete course fi eldwork and research for their Master’s thesis. Students can participate in a wide range of related activities organised at the Institute, such as reading groups, seminars and conferences. From September 2008, the Tinbergen Institute will offer a new fi nance track sponsored by the Duisenberg School of Finance.
Career prospectsThe Master’s programme is entirely dedicated to preparing students for PhD research in one of the TI’s three participating departments. Its courses are tailored to the needs and abilities of these students. The programme also gives students ample opportunity to become acquainted with the wide variety of potential PhD thesis supervisors and research fi elds before they commit to a PhD thesis research position. The PhD programme takes three years and leads to a PhD degree in Economics.
Prof. Wouter den Haan (The Netherlands)Professor of Macro-Economics The structure of the TI’s programme resembles that of the best economics programmes in the world. Its core courses offer groundbreaking knowledge in the three main fi elds of economics and the programme offers a spectacular set of fi eld courses. A remarkable feature, not always found at top-level universities, is the
excellent atmosphere and collaboration among students. This, together with the huge pool of potential advisers that the three participating universities offer, may be an important factor behind the success of so many TI graduates.
20 www.feb.uva.nl/education 21 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business20 www.feb.uva.nl/education 21 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Bernd Schwaab from Germany Alumnus, Master of Philosophy in
Economics
‘Given that I had already done very well
in the fi rst two years of an Economics
PhD programme at a decent US university,
I expected my MPhil life to be smooth
sailing. Gee, was I wrong. I had to
severely adjust my learning habits and
foster the self-discipline that it takes to
understand material at a fundamental
level. Of course the effort and long
weekends of the fi rst year have been
worth it; I know a lot more now than
I did back then. And fortunately, second-
year students also have considerable
freedom to choose their fi elds of interest
and can pick specialised courses and be
creative in writing and presenting their
fi rst fi eld papers. My take on good
reasons to come to TI, beyond the
obvious ones, are the collegial
atmosphere among the students (no
cut-throat competition whatsoever),
virtually no hierarchy, good facilities and
a management that really cares about
the quality of the programme.’
‘A remarkable feature, not always found
at top-level universities, is the excellent
atmosphere and collaboration among
students.’ Prof. Wouter den Haan
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years
part-time
Credits: 70 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Prof. Arnoud Boot
Since 1996, the Master’s programme in International Finance (MIF) has been providing students with high-quality, thorough training
in the theoretical and practical aspects of international fi nance. This well-established programme draws on the FEB’s reputation as a centre of excellence in fi nance and fi nancial econometrics. The Master’s programme in International Finance is open to full-time and part-time students and has a truly international student body and approach to fi nance.
The programme is ideal both for those wishing to pursue a career in fi nance and for established fi nance professionals wishing to enhance their career prospects. Courses are practice rather than academically oriented, though the programme maintains high academic standards and students learn about the latest research in relevant areas.
Programme structure and curriculumThe MIF programme takes one year (full-time) or two years (part-time) to complete. Students can choose from four tracks: International Finance, Law and Finance, Mathematical Finance and Real Estate Finance. During the fi rst semester, all students complete a core curriculum designed to provide a fi rm foundation in fi nance. Halfway into the fi rst semester, students choose the specialised track in which they wish to continue. Each track has four core courses and four electives. The second semester starts in January with an international study trip for all students. The fi nal requirement of the programme is a thesis, which most students complete simultaneously with their internship. The thesis is usually based on the application of concepts from one of the programme’s core areas to a
practical project in the student’s work environment. The internship also gives students an opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to practical situations and provides invaluable professional experience. In fact, a signifi cant number of students have found jobs in this way.
Career prospects The MIF programme is ideal for those seeking a career in fi nance and for established fi nance professionals looking to enhance their career prospects. Graduates go on to work in areas requiring a thorough understanding of the complexities of international fi nance, such as asset management, corporate fi nance, project fi nance and treasury. Graduates often pursue careers in international organisations, such as international fi nancial institutions, investment banks, multinationals, international consultancies and accounting fi rms.
Prof. Joost Driessen (The Netherlands)Professor of Financial Derivatives Prof. Joost Driessen has published empirical work on credit risk, the term structure of interest rates and interest-rate derivatives, in such journals as the Review of Financial Studies, Journal of Econometrics, Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis and the Journal of International Money and Finance. He has presented his research at many universities, fi nancial institutions and international conferences. His research has been sponsored by a VENI grant from the Netherlands Organisation of Scientifi c Research (NWO).
Prof. Driessen obtained his PhD at Tilburg University. He is currently a Research Fellow at the Tinbergen Institute and Senior Researcher at Netspar, the Dutch network for studies on pensions, aging and retirement. His current research interests include the empirical analysis of derivatives, corporate bonds and credit risk, portfolio choice and the term structure of interest rates. He teaches courses in Derivatives and Risk Management.
‘The MIF provided me with a well-
balanced curriculum, academically
excellent yet approachable professors
and a lively alumni network.’ Vasily Agapov
22 www.feb.uva.nl/education 2� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business22 www.feb.uva.nl/education 2� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
International Finance
excellent yet approachable professors
Title: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years
part-time
Credits: 70 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Prof. Arnoud Boot
Since 1996, the Master’s programme in International Finance (MIF) has been providing students with high-quality, thorough training
in the theoretical and practical aspects of international fi nance. This well-established programme draws on the FEB’s reputation as a centre of excellence in fi nance and fi nancial econometrics. The Master’s programme in International Finance is open to full-time and part-time students and has a truly international student body and approach to fi nance.
The programme is ideal both for those wishing to pursue a career in fi nance and for established fi nance professionals wishing to enhance their career prospects. Courses are practice rather than academically oriented, though the programme maintains high academic standards and students learn about the latest research in relevant areas.
Programme structure and curriculumThe MIF programme takes one year (full-time) or two years (part-time) to complete. Students can choose from four tracks: International Finance, Law and Finance, Mathematical Finance and Real Estate Finance. During the fi rst semester, all students complete a core curriculum designed to provide a fi rm foundation in fi nance. Halfway into the fi rst semester, students choose the specialised track in which they wish to continue. Each track has four core courses and four electives. The second semester starts in January with an international study trip for all students. The fi nal requirement of the programme is a thesis, which most students complete simultaneously with their internship. The thesis is usually based on the application of concepts from one of the programme’s core areas to a
practical project in the student’s work environment. The internship also gives students an opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to practical situations and provides invaluable professional experience. In fact, a signifi cant number of students have found jobs in this way.
Career prospects The MIF programme is ideal for those seeking a career in fi nance and for established fi nance professionals looking to enhance their career prospects. Graduates go on to work in areas requiring a thorough understanding of the complexities of international fi nance, such as asset management, corporate fi nance, project fi nance and treasury. Graduates often pursue careers in international organisations, such as international fi nancial institutions, investment banks, multinationals, international consultancies and accounting fi rms.
Prof. Joost Driessen (The Netherlands)Professor of Financial Derivatives Prof. Joost Driessen has published empirical work on credit risk, the term structure of interest rates and interest-rate derivatives, in such journals as the Review of Financial Studies, Journal of Econometrics, Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis and the Journal of International Money and Finance. He has presented his research at many universities, fi nancial institutions and international conferences. His research has been sponsored by a VENI grant from the Netherlands Organisation of Scientifi c Research (NWO).
Prof. Driessen obtained his PhD at Tilburg University. He is currently a Research Fellow at the Tinbergen Institute and Senior Researcher at Netspar, the Dutch network for studies on pensions, aging and retirement. His current research interests include the empirical analysis of derivatives, corporate bonds and credit risk, portfolio choice and the term structure of interest rates. He teaches courses in Derivatives and Risk Management.
22 www.feb.uva.nl/education 2� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business22 www.feb.uva.nl/education 2� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
International Finance
Vasily Agapov from the USA Alumnus, MIF
‘I was looking for a programme with a
personal approach in an international
environment. The quantitative track of
the MIF fi t the bill precisely. It provided
me with a well-balanced curriculum,
academically excellent yet approachable
professors and a lively alumni network.
Most importantly, the MIF gave me the
chance to form lasting friendships with
my classmates and to experience student
life in Amsterdam. By the time I
graduated I was able to secure a
full-time offer to join the market risk
group at Merrill Lynch in London.’
Title: Master in Business
Administration (MBA)
Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years
part-time
Credits: 70 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Dr Willemijn van Dolen
The Amsterdam MBA is designed to incorporate three R’s: rigour, relevance and reliability. A multidisciplinary programme such as an MBA must be taught with academic rigour. Practicalities differ across industry, geography and time and are crucial to an understanding of underlying theories. We make theory relevant by linking it to practice, bringing the business world into the classroom and taking the student into the business world. The latter includes a study trip to a well-known business school. Reliability is key to students’ confi dence in their knowledge, and to their understanding of the limitations of that knowledge. A business manager needs to be able to talk to various specialists in their own language, but also to know when to defer to their expertise.
Programme structure and curriculumThe MBA curriculum provides broad coverage of the main functional areas of management: accounting, fi nance, marketing, operations management, information systems management, law, human resource management, economics and quantitative analysis. The curriculum is highly integrative and includes an international study trip
and courses in business policy and strategy. Extending beyond the mere acquisition of knowledge and technical skills, the curriculum puts theory into practice by focusing on the personal development of participants through such competencies as decision-making, teamwork, leadership skills, entrepreneurial potential, negotiation skills, communication and presentation skills. Students can
specialise in the following tracks: Finance, Entrepreneurship, Real Estate, Corporate Social Responsibility, Negotiations.
Our keen awareness of the importance of leadership competencies in personal professional development led the establishment of our Amsterdam Leadership Programme®. Through this programme we aim to give
students the high-quality business and management training that will enable them to develop into effective leaders, leaders who convey what our MBA stands for - an international orientation - and characterised by a strong understanding of the importance of a genuine personal approach. Students conclude the Amsterdam MBA by taking part in a real-life in-company consultancy project. Some do this in small groups in projects arranged by the Amsterdam Business School, while others opt for individual projects arranged by the school or themselves. By dealing with a real business problem or strategic consultancy issue, students can show their ability to contribute to the development of a targeted solution.
Career prospects Typically, graduates go on to careers in areas in which a thorough understanding of the complexities of international business is essential, such as in multinational organisations, international consultancy fi rms, international fi nancial institutions and banks. Our personal career service helps students to make sound career choices and assists them in areas such as writing a cover letter, preparing a professional CV and good interviewing techniques.
2� www.feb.uva.nl/education 25 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business2� www.feb.uva.nl/education 25 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
The Amsterdam MBA
‘The Amsterdam MBA provides the perfect
training and is an ideal match for me in
achieving my ambitions.’ Alexandra Fleschiu
Dr Willemijn van Dolen from the Netherlands Programme director, Amsterdam MBA
‘Both the Amsterdam MBA and the city of Amsterdam have a distinctively international
orientation. The Dutch capital is a key commercial and fi nancial centre for international
business today. Amsterdam’s central location is appealing to international companies wishing
to establish a European base, as well as to entrepreneurs setting out on new and daring
ventures. As such, Amsterdam is an inspiring backdrop for our MBA programme, providing
an open, entrepreneurial and dynamic setting for a global business education.’
Title: Master in Business
Administration (MBA)
Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years
part-time
Credits: 70 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Dr Willemijn van Dolen
The Amsterdam MBA is designed to incorporate three R’s: rigour, relevance and reliability. A multidisciplinary programme such as an MBA must be taught with academic rigour. Practicalities differ across industry, geography and time and are crucial to an understanding of underlying theories. We make theory relevant by linking it to practice, bringing the business world into the classroom and taking the student into the business world. The latter includes a study trip to a well-known business school. Reliability is key to students’ confi dence in their knowledge, and to their understanding of the limitations of that knowledge. A business manager needs to be able to talk to various specialists in their own language, but also to know when to defer to their expertise.
Programme structure and curriculumThe MBA curriculum provides broad coverage of the main functional areas of management: accounting, fi nance, marketing, operations management, information systems management, law, human resource management, economics and quantitative analysis. The curriculum is highly integrative and includes an international study trip
and courses in business policy and strategy. Extending beyond the mere acquisition of knowledge and technical skills, the curriculum puts theory into practice by focusing on the personal development of participants through such competencies as decision-making, teamwork, leadership skills, entrepreneurial potential, negotiation skills, communication and presentation skills. Students can
specialise in the following tracks: Finance, Entrepreneurship, Real Estate, Corporate Social Responsibility, Negotiations.
Our keen awareness of the importance of leadership competencies in personal professional development led the establishment of our Amsterdam Leadership Programme®. Through this programme we aim to give
students the high-quality business and management training that will enable them to develop into effective leaders, leaders who convey what our MBA stands for - an international orientation - and characterised by a strong understanding of the importance of a genuine personal approach. Students conclude the Amsterdam MBA by taking part in a real-life in-company consultancy project. Some do this in small groups in projects arranged by the Amsterdam Business School, while others opt for individual projects arranged by the school or themselves. By dealing with a real business problem or strategic consultancy issue, students can show their ability to contribute to the development of a targeted solution.
Career prospects Typically, graduates go on to careers in areas in which a thorough understanding of the complexities of international business is essential, such as in multinational organisations, international consultancy fi rms, international fi nancial institutions and banks. Our personal career service helps students to make sound career choices and assists them in areas such as writing a cover letter, preparing a professional CV and good interviewing techniques.
2� www.feb.uva.nl/education 25 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business2� www.feb.uva.nl/education 25 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Alexandra Fleschiu from Canada Student, Amsterdam MBA
‘The MBA provides the perfect training
and is an ideal match for me in achieving
my ambitions. I was attracted by the
excellent faculty and international
exposure in a great university setting.
In my professional career, which gave
me the experience and practical
knowledge of a fi nancial setting, I had
come to a point where I wanted more
development and a boost to a higher
level. The business knowledge and the
exposure to different viewpoints that
I gain from the student community,
my peers and esteemed professors will
prepare me to achieve my objective of
becoming a successful business
professional.’
Title: Master in Business
Administration (MBA)
Duration: 18 months
Credits: 70 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Prof. Jacob de Smit
The Independent Executive MBA programme is jointly delivered by the Amsterdam Business School and the Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School. The programme combines the best of both institutions with a variety of the most successful teaching methods currently in use: lectures, group work, case teaching, games and simulations. It culminates in a major consultancy project. Our Independent Executive MBA programme, with its multinational classes and faculty, make it a major cultural and learning experience both in and outside the classroom.
Programme structure and curriculumGraduates of the programme are highly educated discussion partners in the main functional areas of management, such as strategic management, accounting fi nance, marketing, operations management, law, human resource management, economics and quantitative methods. The development of such ‘people
skills’ as entrepreneurship, leadership, team-building and negotiation is an important part of the programme.
The Independent Executive MBA starts in January of each year and can be completed in 18 months. Classes take place every third weekend and are held alternately at the Amsterdam Business School and the Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School in Belgium. There are no classes during the week. In addition, two one-week residential blocks are organised in January and July of each year, of which the third week (in the second year) includes an international study trip to India, Russia or China. The programme can be completed without interrupting normal working life, meaning employer support is not essential. Approximately �0 students will be admitted to the programme starting in January 2009. Applicants will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The Independent Executive MBA aims to have a highly international student body whose members have two things in common: the ambition and the capability to pursue a challenging business degree.
Career prospectsStudent’s career opportunities are enhanced in all areas where a thorough understanding of the complexities of international business
is essential, e.g. multinationals, international consultancy and accounting fi rms, international fi nancial institutions and banks. Entrepreneurs will fi nd themselves much more confi dent in doing business.
Prof. Joseph A. McCahery (USA)Professor of Corporate Governance and Business InnovationProf. Joseph A. McCahery is also a Research Fellow at the Institute of International Corporate Governance and Accountability at George Washington University and a Research Associate at the European Corporate Governance Institute (ECGI) in Brussels. In addition, he is Leo Goldschmidt Visiting Professor of Corporate Governance at Brussels University (ULB). McCahery obtained his PhD in Law from Warwick University, where he taught until 1997. He serves on the editorial boards of several leading academic journals, and has written widely on banking and securities law, corporate law, corporate governance, the political economy of federalism and taxation. He is a consultant to the OECD, the Centre for European Policy Studies and a number of fi nancial institutions and governmental agencies. In addition, he is currently co-Director of the Amsterdam Centre for Corporate Finance.
Independent Executive MBA
26 www.feb.uva.nl/education 27 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business26 www.feb.uva.nl/education 27 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
‘I chose the Independent Executive MBA
because it combines the strength of two
excellent business schools.’ Dennis Onneweer
Dennis Onneweer from the Netherlands Student, Independent Executive MBA
‘Being a management consultant and programme manager, I felt the need to broaden my
horizon and improve both my entrepreneurial and managerial knowledge and skills. I chose
the Independent Executive MBA because it combines the strength of two excellent business
schools in a fairly priced package of high quality education that is tailored to the needs of
experienced fulltime professionals. Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School is renowned for
its focus on entrepreneurship. The Amsterdam Business School is respected for its strength in
fi nance. The schedule of weekend classes every three weeks, with the residential weeks and
the international study week as an extra, is perfect for the working professional. You do need
to take care to manage your time effi ciently and make the proper arrangements with family
and friends. Yet the reward is there after 18 months, after which you can join ranks of both
Vlerick and Amsterdam alumni.’
Title: Master in Business
Administration (MBA)
Duration: 18 months
Credits: 70 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Prof. Jacob de Smit
The Independent Executive MBA programme is jointly delivered by the Amsterdam Business School and the Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School. The programme combines the best of both institutions with a variety of the most successful teaching methods currently in use: lectures, group work, case teaching, games and simulations. It culminates in a major consultancy project. Our Independent Executive MBA programme, with its multinational classes and faculty, make it a major cultural and learning experience both in and outside the classroom.
Programme structure and curriculumGraduates of the programme are highly educated discussion partners in the main functional areas of management, such as strategic management, accounting fi nance, marketing, operations management, law, human resource management, economics and quantitative methods. The development of such ‘people
skills’ as entrepreneurship, leadership, team-building and negotiation is an important part of the programme.
The Independent Executive MBA starts in January of each year and can be completed in 18 months. Classes take place every third weekend and are held alternately at the Amsterdam Business School and the Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School in Belgium. There are no classes during the week. In addition, two one-week residential blocks are organised in January and July of each year, of which the third week (in the second year) includes an international study trip to India, Russia or China. The programme can be completed without interrupting normal working life, meaning employer support is not essential. Approximately �0 students will be admitted to the programme starting in January 2009. Applicants will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The Independent Executive MBA aims to have a highly international student body whose members have two things in common: the ambition and the capability to pursue a challenging business degree.
Career prospectsStudent’s career opportunities are enhanced in all areas where a thorough understanding of the complexities of international business
is essential, e.g. multinationals, international consultancy and accounting fi rms, international fi nancial institutions and banks. Entrepreneurs will fi nd themselves much more confi dent in doing business.
Prof. Joseph A. McCahery (USA)Professor of Corporate Governance and Business InnovationProf. Joseph A. McCahery is also a Research Fellow at the Institute of International Corporate Governance and Accountability at George Washington University and a Research Associate at the European Corporate Governance Institute (ECGI) in Brussels. In addition, he is Leo Goldschmidt Visiting Professor of Corporate Governance at Brussels University (ULB). McCahery obtained his PhD in Law from Warwick University, where he taught until 1997. He serves on the editorial boards of several leading academic journals, and has written widely on banking and securities law, corporate law, corporate governance, the political economy of federalism and taxation. He is a consultant to the OECD, the Centre for European Policy Studies and a number of fi nancial institutions and governmental agencies. In addition, he is currently co-Director of the Amsterdam Centre for Corporate Finance.
Independent Executive MBA
26 www.feb.uva.nl/education 27 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business26 www.feb.uva.nl/education 27 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Title: Executive Master in Finance
and Control (EMFC)
Duration: 2.5 years
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Prof. Eddy Vaassen
The international Executive Master’s programme in Finance and Control (iEMFC) is a joint programme of Maastricht University and the UvA. Two degrees are awarded: the Dutch Registered Controller (RC) degree and the Executive Master in Finance and Control (EMFC).
Programme structure and curriculumThe iEMFC programme is set upfor university graduates employed in international fi nancial practice who have at least two years of experience working in fi nance and a Master’s level background in fi nance, accounting or information management. The target group comprises employees from multinational corporations that either have their headquarters in the Netherlands or have important ties with Netherlands-based fi rms. In view of the international focus of the programme, it is particularly appropriate for expats at these corporations. Typically, these are candidates rated as ‘high potential’
by their employers, and supported as such. The benchmark for admission is a Master’s degree in Business Administration. Candidates are selected on the basis of this minimal requirement, which means that some applicants may require additional individual instruction and training prior to enrolment. In addition to these formal academic requirements, corporations employing candidates may have to give their offi cial support. The programme includes six seminars of two weeks each, in March, July and November. The seminars are held alternately in Maastricht (twice), Boston (once), Shanghai (once) and Amsterdam (twice).
Career prospectsStudents will enhance their career options by enrolling in this programme and successful graduates can expect to progress to CFO and possibly CEO positions in the short term.
28 www.feb.uva.nl/education 29 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business28 www.feb.uva.nl/education 29 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
international Executive Master of Finance and Control
‘We continuously challenge our
staff to improve our curriculum,
our business processes and our
teaching materials.’ Prof. Eddy Vaassen
Prof. Eddy Vaassen from the Netherlands Programme director, international Executive Master of Finance and Control
‘Our mission is to offer high-quality education by specialised teaching staff to experienced
practitioners with a university degree in order to enhance their practical performance and
career opportunities in Finance and Control. In doing so, we wish to promote recognition of
the Universiteit Maastricht Business School and the Amsterdam Business School as the
providers of such education. We believe this can be accomplished by offering a programme
that is innovative, focused, international, integrative, coherent, intensive and selective toward
potential participants and potential teaching staff. To provide such education, we continuously
challenge our teaching and support staff to improve curriculum, business processes and our
teaching materials.’
Title: Executive Master in Finance
and Control (EMFC)
Duration: 2.5 years
Credits: 60 ECTS credits
Language: English
Programme director:
Prof. Eddy Vaassen
The international Executive Master’s programme in Finance and Control (iEMFC) is a joint programme of Maastricht University and the UvA. Two degrees are awarded: the Dutch Registered Controller (RC) degree and the Executive Master in Finance and Control (EMFC).
Programme structure and curriculumThe iEMFC programme is set up for university graduates employed in international financial practice who have at least two years of experience working in finance and a Master’s level background in finance, accounting or information management. The target group comprises employees from multinational corporations that either have their headquarters in the Netherlands or have important ties with Netherlands-based firms. In view of the international focus of the programme, it is particularly appropriate for expats at these corporations. Typically, these are candidates rated as ‘high potential’
by their employers, and supported as such. The benchmark for admission is a Master’s degree in Business Administration. Candidates are selected on the basis of this minimal requirement, which means that some applicants may require additional individual instruction and training prior to enrolment. In addition to these formal academic requirements, corporations employing candidates may have to give their official support. The programme includes six seminars of two weeks each, in March, July and November. The seminars are held alternately in Maastricht (twice), Boston (once), Shanghai (once) and Amsterdam (twice).
Career prospectsStudents will enhance their career options by enrolling in this programme and successful graduates can expect to progress to CFO and possibly CEO positions in the short term.
28 www.feb.uva.nl/education 29 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business28 www.feb.uva.nl/education 29 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Emma Labas from France Alumna, Executive Master of Finance
and Control
‘This Executive Master’s programme
appealed to me because its content is
perfectly in line with my current position
as a junior controller for the retail
company Albert Heijn and for the
development of my career. Although I
have lived in the Netherlands for three
years now, my Dutch was not good
enough to take classes in Dutch,
so the English iEMFC programme was
the logical step for me. The programme is
very good for various reasons. The lecture
topics are diverse and range from finance
to supply chain management. This broad
view really enhances the quality of a
controller’s everyday business life. Not
only is the programme itself very useful,
it is also extremely beneficial because
of the discussions with other students.
I have high expectations for my career
now. There are always opportunities in
the Ahold Group and having an
international background in the
Netherlands gives you lots of prospects.’
General admission requirements
Applicants must have at least a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant fi eld (e.g. Business, Business Economics, Commerce, Economics). A Master’s degree is required for the international Executive Master of Finance and Control and desired for the other advanced Master’s programmes.
English language profi ciency
Non-native English speakers must pass an English-language profi ciency test. Such English speakers are exempted from taking such a test provided they have earned their degrees in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom or the United States. The following tests are accepted: ■ TOEFL, with a minimum score of
600 (paper-based), 250 (computer-based) or 100 (Internet-based). Students must have an offi cial copy of the results sent directly by the TOEFL institute to the programme they are applying for. The TOEFL reporting number for the UvA’s Faculty of Economics and Business is 0�98;
■ ELTS (academic module) with a minimum score of 6.5;
■ Cambridge International Examinations, with minimum scores of A/B+ for CAB, B for CPE or A+ for FCE (source: ISP brochure);
■ Dutch students: pre-university (VWO) level of English.
Some programmes have additional requirements such as GMAT, a mathematical test, work experience, an interview or references. For more detailed information, see the individual programme websites.
Visa and residence permit
The UvA helps students who need to apply for a visa or residence permit. Your programme manager or admissions offi cer will be able to assist you further.
Scholarships
Amsterdam School of Economics
Amsterdam Business School
Amsterdam Merit Scholarships
The UvA aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship. Some programmes (e.g. Like MBA and MIF) have their own tuition waiver scheme. For more information on this and other scholarship programmes, seewww.uva.nl/scholarships or
www.grantfi nder.nl.
�0 www.feb.uva.nl/education �1 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business�0 www.feb.uva.nl/education �1 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Practical matters
Housing
Rent for single rooms in Amsterdam varies from approximately € �00 to € 600 a month. Rent for shared accomodation is approximately € �00 a month. The UvA is able to guarantee housing for students of the Faculty of Economics and Business. www.studeren.uva.nl/housing
Living expenses In addition to the tuition fees and accommodation expenses, students need approximately € �00 to € 500 a month for other expenses. Insurance costs around € 50 a month. Overall living expenses in Amsterdam vary from between € 550 to € 1,�00 a month (including rent).
Study materials
Depending on the course, the costs of books and other study materials can vary, ranging from approximately € 500 to € 1,000 in total. For more information on fi nances, see www.uva/isp or
www.student.uva.nl/eco (under
‘Practical matters’)
Working during your studies
Students from EU countries or Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland are not required to have a work permit in order to work in the Netherlands. Exceptions are the following EU countries: Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia. The same requirements apply to students from these countries as to students from non-EU countries. Students from non-EU countries require a work permit and may work either 10 hours a week year round or a maximum of 520 hours in a seasonal job during June, July and August.
Insurance
Every resident of the Netherlands is required to have appropriate health insurance. This includes international students. General liability insurance is also recommended. Before you come to the Netherlands, please make sure your health insurance will cover the entire period of your stay. If your current healthcare insurance will not cover your stay abroad, you can choose to apply for either private student insurance or ‘basic’ Dutch healthcare insurance (basisverzekering), depending on your situation.www.uva.nl/insurance
�0 www.feb.uva.nl/education �1 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business�0 www.feb.uva.nl/education �1 University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Practical matters
Health and well-being
The UvA has its own medical and general health and welfare services. Students with medical or dental complaints can see a University doctor or dentist; a reduced fee
applies in most cases. Student psychologists are available to help UvA students with psychological/social problems. There is also a chaplaincy where students can get advice from a priest, rabbi or humanistic adviser on issues they
might not feel comfortable discussing with other students. www.uva.nl/isp (see ‘Coming to
Amsterdam’).
Computer facilities
UvA students receive an UvAnetID upon enrolment. This provides access to a range of online services including student email, Blackboard and Studyweb. Students also receive a personal email account, a homepage, free Internet dial-up access and discounts on UvA-dsl cable internet access and various software products. In addition, 100MB of storage space is available for each student to use on the UvA network’s U-drive.www.student.uva.nl/english/facilities.cfm
Libraries
The UvA’s library facilities comprise the University Library and an additional seven faculty libraries. The UvA has an extensive collection that includes some four million titles, plus a large collection of rare manuscripts, letters and maps. Students have access to the collections free of charge. The UvA also has an extensive Digital Library that is accessible to all UvA students and staff. www.uba.uva.nl
University restaurants
Food in the two university restaurants, Atrium and Agora, is good and cheap. Both restaurants also have a bar.
University Sports Centre
The University Sports Centre (USC) offers fi tness facilities and a wide range of fi tness classes for students, covering everything from aikido to swimming. The USC also has numerous gyms, an infrared sauna, sunbeds and a sports café. Students pay a small fee for the use of USC facilities, which are housed at various UvA locations.www.usc.uva.nl
CREA
CREA, the cultural organisation of the UvA and the HvA, organises courses and workshops in theatre, music, dance, literature, the visual arts, video, radio, multimedia and photography. In the context of CREA Studium Generale, it often cooperates with student organisations to organise debates, lectures and fi lm screenings. CREA also has its own café and theatre, in which around 100 performances, concerts, events and exhibitions are held annually.www.crea.uva.nl
Student organisations
Most Faculty departments have their own student organisations. These organisations advocate the protection and promotion of student interests, and organise such things as excursions, social activities and book discounts. They also play an important role in departmental and faculty committees.
International student network The International Student Network Amsterdam (ISN-A) takes care of the social and cultural integration of international students studying at the UvA. To this end, it organises a wide variety of activities, including movie nights, weekly drinks, cultural outings and excursions.www.isn-amsterdam.nl
�2 www.feb.uva.nl/education �� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business�2 www.feb.uva.nl/education �� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Health and well-being
The UvA has its own medical and general health and welfare services. Students with medical or dental complaints can see a University doctor or dentist; a reduced fee
applies in most cases. Student psychologists are available to help UvA students with psychological/social problems. There is also a chaplaincy where students can get advice from a priest, rabbi or humanistic adviser on issues they
might not feel comfortable discussing with other students. www.uva.nl/isp (see ‘Coming to
Amsterdam’).
Computer facilities
UvA students receive an UvAnetID upon enrolment. This provides access to a range of online services including student email, Blackboard and Studyweb. Students also receive a personal email account, a homepage, free Internet dial-up access and discounts on UvA-dsl cable internet access and various software products. In addition, 100MB of storage space is available for each student to use on the UvA network’s U-drive.www.student.uva.nl/english/facilities.cfm
Libraries
The UvA’s library facilities comprise the University Library and an additional seven faculty libraries. The UvA has an extensive collection that includes some four million titles, plus a large collection of rare manuscripts, letters and maps. Students have access to the collections free of charge. The UvA also has an extensive Digital Library that is accessible to all UvA students and staff. www.uba.uva.nl
University restaurants
Food in the two university restaurants, Atrium and Agora, is good and cheap. Both restaurants also have a bar.
University Sports Centre
The University Sports Centre (USC) offers fi tness facilities and a wide range of fi tness classes for students, covering everything from aikido to swimming. The USC also has numerous gyms, an infrared sauna, sunbeds and a sports café. Students pay a small fee for the use of USC facilities, which are housed at various UvA locations.www.usc.uva.nl
CREA
CREA, the cultural organisation of the UvA and the HvA, organises courses and workshops in theatre, music, dance, literature, the visual arts, video, radio, multimedia and photography. In the context of CREA Studium Generale, it often cooperates with student organisations to organise debates, lectures and fi lm screenings. CREA also has its own café and theatre, in which around 100 performances, concerts, events and exhibitions are held annually.www.crea.uva.nl
Student organisations
Most Faculty departments have their own student organisations. These organisations advocate the protection and promotion of student interests, and organise such things as excursions, social activities and book discounts. They also play an important role in departmental and faculty committees.
International student network The International Student Network Amsterdam (ISN-A) takes care of the social and cultural integration of international students studying at the UvA. To this end, it organises a wide variety of activities, including movie nights, weekly drinks, cultural outings and excursions.www.isn-amsterdam.nl
�2 www.feb.uva.nl/education �� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business�2 www.feb.uva.nl/education �� University of Amsterdam | Faculty of Economics and Business
Colophon
EditionUniversity of AmsterdamOctober 2008
PhotosHenny Boogert, Dirk Gillissen, Jeroen Oerlemans, Ineke Oostveen
DesignCrasborn Grafisch Ontwerpers bno Valkenburg aan de Geul | 08�91
Disclaimer Wherever commercial organisations are mentioned by name in this brochure, this is not because the University of Amsterdam favours or benefits from mentioning them in any way. No rights can be derived from the contents of this brochure.
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University of Amsterdam
Faculty of Economics and BusinessRoeterseiland - Building ERoetersstraat 111018 WB AmsterdamThe Netherlandswww.uva.nl/masters
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